The Madina-La Nkwantanang Municipal Assembly in the Greater Accra Region has intensified efforts to address the persistent challenges posed by street trading, hawking and pedestrian indiscipline within the municipality.
Madina-La Nkwantanang is one of the densely populated municipalities in the Greater Accra Region and is home to the Madina Market, one of the busiest commercial centres in the capital. The high volume of commercial activities, however, has created significant challenges for the Assembly and security agencies in managing traders, hawkers, motorists and pedestrians.
A major concern has been the refusal by some pedestrians to use the Madina footbridge, with many continuing to cross the busy main road. At the same time, hawkers have increasingly occupied road medians and the shoulders of major roads to sell their wares, creating congestion and exposing both traders and pedestrians to serious safety risks.
Despite repeated enforcement exercises by the Assembly’s task force, in collaboration with the police, the situation has remained a challenge.
In response to the situation, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Madina-La Nkwantanang, Alhaji Ibrahim Faila Fuseini challenged staff of the Assembly, particularly members of the task force, to adopt innovative approaches to dealing with the problem.
According to him, enforcement alone would not be enough to bring lasting change, stressing the need for commitment, creativity and sustained engagement with residents, traders and other stakeholders.
The call appears to have yielded results, with some staff taking it upon themselves to ensure that pedestrians use the designated footbridge while preventing hawkers from trading on the medians and along the major roads.
Seven Staff Rewarded With Motorbikes
To recognise their efforts and commitment, Alhaji Ibrahim Faila Fuseini personally rewarded seven staff members of the Assembly with motorbikes.
Presenting the motorbikes to the beneficiaries, the MCE described the gesture as a personal reward for staff who had demonstrated exceptional commitment to their duties and contributed to efforts to improve order within the municipality.
He said the initiative is also intended to motivate other staff to put in their best and contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the Assembly.
“I bought these motorbikes with my personal monthly salary just to motivate staff in their day-to-day activities,” Mr. Fiala said.
He further explained that the gesture was inspired by the culture of rewarding commitment and performance, citing President John Mahama’s decision to reward his appointees as an example.
“Just like the President, John Mahama, rewards us, his appointees, that is the same way I have also decided to reward you for your commitment and dedication to the work of the Assembly,” he stated.
The MCE disclosed that the seven motorbikes would not be the last form of recognition for hardworking staff, indicating that additional incentives would be introduced for personnel who distinguish themselves through their contribution to the Assembly.
He urged staff to see the recognition as encouragement to do more rather than an opportunity to relax.
Mr. Faila therefore cautioned the seven beneficiaries not to become complacent following their reward but to remain focused and committed to their responsibilities.
He encouraged all staff of the Assembly to emulate the beneficiaries and work together to build a more organised, safe and vibrant municipality.
The MCE’s initiative is expected to further boost staff morale as the Assembly continues its efforts to tackle street trading, improve pedestrian safety and restore order around the busy Madina commercial enclave.
By Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey
